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With so many Greek islands to choose from, planning your first trip to Greece can be difficult. But for first-time visitors that love wine, sunsets and beach visits, it may be best to combine a popular island with a lesser-known island to get the best of both worlds.
So, Winetraveler’s most popular Greece itinerary includes Santorini, followed by a stop in Paros, a day trip to the hidden gem of Antiparos, and ending in Athens. Also note, if you have more time, it’s easy to extend this trip to include more Greek islands. We include links to several other travel guides if that’s something you’re considering. But for now, here’s how to spend 10 days in Greece and have a grape time.
RELATED: Which Greek Island is Right for You?
Table Of Contents
- Travel Tips and Logistics
- 10 Day Greece Itinerary (Santorini, Paros, Athens)
- Santorini, 3-4 Days
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
- Paros (and Antiparos), 3-4 Days
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
- Athens, 2 Days
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Santorini, 3-4 Days
- Frequently Asked Questions about Planning a Greece Itinerary
- When is the best time to visit Greece?
- How many days should you spend visiting Greece?
- Which destinations should I include in my Greece itinerary?
- Can I take a Santorini helicopter tour?
- How do I travel between Greek islands?
- Do I need a visa to visit Greece?
- What is the currency in Greece, and can I use credit cards?
- Is Greece safe to travel to right now?
- What are the must-try foods in Greece?
Travel Tips and Logistics
The best way to get to Greece is to first fly to a European hub such as London or Paris, and then fly nonstop directly to Santorini to start your trip. It’s best to consider a multi-Greek island itinerary, flying out of Athens to head home. You can search for flight deals here.
Greece uses the Euro, so make sure to have some of this local currency on hand before arrival. Many smaller or family-owned bars and restaurants may accept cash only.
Car rental is possible. Just note that Greek drivers often make up their own rules of the road, so be beware of passers on both sides!
Although you can visit Greece at any time of year, we suggest a September or October trip. The tourist crowds of summer will be thinning out, but seasonal spots remain open and you’ll see plenty of sunshine. And, a fall visit means you’ll be right in the middle of wine harvest season!
Note that Santorini is a pricier island, so plan accordingly. Travelers on a budget could spend fewer days there and more in Paros or Athens. We also suggest other Greek islands that are less touristy and underrated that can be more affordable in this guide.
10 Day Greece Itinerary (Santorini, Paros, Athens)
Santorini, 3-4 Days
Day 1
Land in Santorini and head to your hotel to settle in. There are endless hotel options to choose from in many different areas.
Those wanting that traditional Santorini cliffside hotel experience should stay in Oia, famous for its sunsets. But Megalochori is where the real wine-lovers will want to lodge— this village has a history of wine-making and many places to sample Greek varieties.
On your first day, we recommend settling in and watching the sunset. If you can’t spot the rays going down from your hotel, then head up to the Oia Castle to see the sun dive behind the whitewashed, blue-domed buildings and shimmering sea.
Day 2
Santorini is one of the world’s oldest wine regions. Start with a trip to Venetsanos near Megalochori to taste wine, built into a cliff. Enjoy the gorgeous views as you sample Assyrtiko-based wines (this grape thrives in Santorini’s volcanic soil) from this unique and inviting space.
During the day, and for the ultimate unique visual of Santorini, you must book a Santorini helicopter tour with Santorini Day Tours. This private flight won’t take up much of your day (actual time in air just about 30 minutes), and allows you to see the vineyards and mansions above Megalochori, plus the Thirasia and Oia villages
We also highly recommend booking a private sunset wine tasting and tour. You can spend the day winery-hopping in the area, stopping at spots like Boutari. This stunning white-domed building is an Instagram vision in itself.
Make sure to end the afternoon at Santo, the largest wine cooperative on the island. While everyone else is admiring the sunset in Oia, you can see it from this clifftop winery, organic Assyrtiko wine in hand.
Day 3
You can’t leave Santorini without visiting the gorgeous Red Beach, named for its pebbly red sand and stone mix. Swimmers may prefer Amoudi Bay, where you can dive from the rocks into the incredibly clear sea. Those wanting to hike should head up to the Santorini Volcano.
If you prefer a journey by quad, ride up to the Akrotiri Lighthouse for magnificent views. Or, hire a private boat for the dayand cruise around the island.
Day 4
Hop a ferry to Paros, which can take anywhere from two to almost four hours depending on which boat you take. It’s best to book your tickets in advance using a website like Ferry Hopper or Direct Ferries. Keep in mind that the faster boats are typically more expensive. If you really want to do transport in style, book a helicopter transfer to Paros.
Paros (and Antiparos), 3-4 Days
Day 1
Arrive in Paros via ferry from Santorini. Parikia has a harbor and plenty of budget and mid-range hotel options. Naousa has a larger variety of luxury hotels and villas for rent. Take the afternoon to explore your immediate surroundings and relax by the pool. Or, enjoy an afternoon at Golden Beach, relaxing on the warm sands and dipping in the turquoise waters.
Day 2
Start by discovering the beautiful hidden village of Lefkes. Then, head over to the white village of Naousa, known as the Little Venice of Greece. Check out the old Venetian Harbor and castle, and make sure to catch the sunset.
While in Naousa, tour and taste at the Moraitis Winery. Paros is one of the few islands with its own PDO wine, making it an excellent island for wine fans. The island’s wine is made from grapes like Monemvasia and Mandilaria. The grapevines have deep roots in the soil that grow parallel along the ground. This protects the leaves and grapes from the elements like wind, rain and sun. Naousa is one of the best areas on the island for dining too.
Winetraveler Tip: Make sure to sample delicious Mizithra Greek cheese soaked in honey, fresh seafood like gouna(roasted mackerel) and other Greek delights.
Day 3
A 10-minute ferry ride will take you to the quiet island of Antiparos. While a full-day sailing trip with drinks included gives you ample time to explore the island’s quiet beaches (like Soros and Livadia) and quaint villages (Kambos), an option is to spend a night here — you can even camp if you are feeling adventurous. Kids will love exploring the stalagmites of the Antiparos Cave.
Day 4
Catch a ferry (about three-and-a-half hours) to Athens or a quick flight from Paros Airport.
Athens, 2 Days
Day 1
Arrive in Athens. Your first stop should be the city’s most famous attraction: the Acropolis, including the popular Parthenon Temple. Get there as early as possible to avoid long lines, and make sure to bring sunblock and water. You can also skip the lines and schedule a private, customizable tour.
There are a number of hotels not far from the Acropolis area. Sneakers with good traction are also a must (the area is hilly). After a long day in the hot sun, check out the Plaka neighborhood’s bustling shops and restaurants.
Day 2
If you have time before catching your flight, pay a visit to the National Garden, a large public park in the city center. Then, wave goodbye to Greece and head to the airport to catch your flight home.
Frequently Asked Questions about Planning a Greece Itinerary
When is the best time to visit Greece?
Generally, the high season for tourism in Greece is from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny, and many attractions and activities are open. However, this is also when prices are higher, and popular destinations can be crowded.
If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, the best time to visit Greece is during the shoulder season months of April to May and September to October. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer tourists, making it easier to explore popular sites without the crowds.
If you’re interested in outdoor activities, such as hiking, then spring and fall are the best times to visit. The weather is mild, and the landscapes are lush and green.
How many days should you spend visiting Greece?
The number of days you should spend in Greece depends on your itinerary and the destinations you plan to visit.
If you’re planning to visit only Athens, a minimum of two to three days would be enough to explore the city’s main attractions, such as the Acropolis and the ancient ruins.
If you want to explore other Greek islands, a week would be a good amount of time to visit two or three islands and explore their attractions, beaches, and local culture. However, for a more comprehensive itinerary that includes both Athens and the islands, 10-14 days would be a good amount of time to see the main highlights and have some time for relaxation. Which is what we suggest with this particular Greece itinerary.
Which destinations should I include in my Greece itinerary?
Greece is a country with countless destinations worth including in your itinerary, depending on your interests and preferences. Starting with the capital city, Athens, which is home to ancient ruins, museums, and vibrant nightlife. Another popular destination is Santorini, known for its stunning caldera views, white-washed buildings, and romantic sunsets. Mykonos is also a favorite among tourists for its beaches, nightlife, and traditional Cycladic architecture. For those looking to explore an island with historic sites, Crete is the largest Greek island and offers a mix of beaches, ancient ruins, and picturesque villages. Rhodes is another island that is famous for its medieval old town, beaches, and ancient ruins. Other destinations worth considering include Naxos, Corfu, Meteora, and Delphi, which are known for their natural beauty, historic sites, and stunning landscapes. It’s essential to research and choose the destinations that align with your interests and travel style, as Greece has a lot to offer.
Can I take a Santorini helicopter tour?
Absolutely. In fact, we believe it’s obligatory. Get an unmatched private aerial perspective of Santorini, viewing the vineyards and mansions above Megalochori with this Santorini Helicopter Tour operated by Santorini Day Tours. Plus, see the Thirasia and Oia villages
How do I travel between Greek islands?
The most common way to travel between Greek islands is by ferry. Greece has an extensive ferry network, connecting the islands with the mainland and each other. There are different types of ferries available, from high-speed catamarans to slower conventional ferries, and the journey time can vary depending on the distance between the islands.
You can book ferry tickets online or at a local travel agency in Greece. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during the high season, as ferries can sell out quickly.
Another option for traveling between the islands is by domestic flights. Greece has several domestic airlines that operate flights between the major islands, and it can be a convenient and time-saving option for those with limited time. An even more fun way to travel between or simply get an aerial view, is to book a helicopter tour.
Lastly, private yachts and boats are also available for hire, providing a luxurious and flexible option for island-hopping. It’s important to note that this option can be quite expensive, and it’s recommended to book well in advance.
Do I need a visa to visit Greece?
It depends on your nationality and the purpose of your trip. Greece is a member of the Schengen Area, which allows visa-free travel for citizens of certain countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Citizens of the European Union (EU) countries, as well as countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, do not need a visa to enter Greece as tourists for stays up to 90 days.
However, if you’re traveling from a country that is not on the visa-exempt list, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa before your trip. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose of your trip, such as tourism, business, or study.
It’s important to check the visa requirements for your specific country before you travel to Greece. You can check the official website of the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs or consult with your local Greek embassy or consulate for more information.
What is the currency in Greece, and can I use credit cards?
The official currency of Greece is the Euro (EUR). You can exchange foreign currency into Euros at banks, exchange offices, and ATMs, which are widely available throughout the country.
Credit cards are widely accepted in Greece, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted credit cards, while American Express may not be accepted at smaller establishments. It’s always a good idea to carry some cash with you, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas or smaller villages where credit card acceptance may be limited.
It’s also important to notify your bank and credit card company before your trip to Greece to avoid any issues with card usage. Some banks and credit card companies may charge fees for international transactions, so it’s important to check with them beforehand to avoid any surprises.
Is Greece safe to travel to right now?
Yes, Greece is generally a safe country to travel to. The country has a low crime rate, and violent crime is rare. However, like any destination, travelers should take precautions to ensure their safety and security.
It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take care of your personal belongings, especially in crowded areas, tourist sites, and public transportation. Pickpocketing and theft can occur in popular tourist areas, so it’s advisable to keep your valuables secure and be mindful of your surroundings.
In terms of health and safety, Greece has a good standard of healthcare and adequate facilities, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. It’s important to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, as well as any other potential travel disruptions.
It’s also important to be aware of the weather conditions, especially during the summer months when temperatures can reach high levels. It’s recommended to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade during the hottest parts of the day.
What are the must-try foods in Greece?
Greek cuisine is a must-try for any traveler visiting Greece. Some of the most iconic and delicious dishes include Moussaka, a layered casserole made with eggplant, ground meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce. Another classic dish is Souvlaki, which is grilled meat, usually chicken, pork, or lamb, served on a skewer with a side of tzatziki sauce. Dolmades, or stuffed grape leaves, are another popular appetizer or side dish, filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and often ground meat. Spanakopita is a savory pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese wrapped in flaky phyllo dough. For seafood lovers, grilled octopus and fried calamari are both delicious options.
Finally, no trip to Greece would be complete without trying a Greek salad, made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and feta cheese, topped with a simple olive oil and vinegar dressing.
These are just a few of the many must-try foods in Greece, and with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors, there is something for every taste bud.
